An Ode to Sacrifice: The Man Behind the Monodrama

Thane, Sep 09 (PTI): For nearly three decades, a remarkable story has been told and retold, not by a professional actor, but by a dedicated civil servant. Manoj Shivaji Sanap, a Gazetted Class-I officer of the Government of Maharashtra, has used his personal time and passion to honor a fallen hero and inspire a new generation of patriots. His one-man show, "Shaheed Captain Vinayak Gore," is not just a play; it's a living tribute to a friend and a powerful call to service.

The journey began in 1995, just a day after Captain Vinayak Gore, a young officer of just 27, was martyred on the Line of Control. For Sanap, then a student and fellow NCC cadet at K.J. Somaiya College of Arts and Commerce, the news was a profound shock. Driven by a deep sense of loss and respect, he channeled his emotions into a monodrama that would keep Captain Gore's memory alive.

On September 9, 2025, exactly thirty years since that first performance, Manoj Sanap will take the stage for the 5000th time at his alma mater. This significant milestone will be part of the K.J. Somaiya Group's Foundation Day celebrations. It's a fitting venue, as it was on that very campus where he first performed the play, forever linking his personal mission to the institution that nurtured him.

Beyond the stage, Sanap's patriotism is a call to action. He uses his platform to inspire students and citizens alike to consider a career in the Indian Armed Forces. But his message is broader than military service. He advocates for selfless acts of national and social service, urging people to donate blood and organs, contribute to Flag Day, and, most importantly, show respect for soldiers and their families.

For the media in Thane district, where he serves as District Information Officer, Sanap is more than a government official. He is a valued asset and a constant source of inspiration. His tireless dedication has earned him countless accolades, but for him, the true reward is seeing the fire of patriotism ignite in the hearts of his audience. His journey from a grieving student to a beacon of national pride is a testament to the idea that one person's commitment can make a monumental difference.

This is more than a story of a play; it's a profound tale of a man's unwavering devotion to a friend and a nation. It's about remembering a hero and building a legacy of service, one performance at a time. The 5000th show is not an end, but a powerful celebration of a continuing mission—a mission to ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes are never forgotten.

PTI COR